In a scenario where Marcus is searching for Elizabeth's existing application before submitting a new one, does Marcus need Elizabeth's consent before searching for her application, even if he has not submitted an application yet?

• A. No
• B. Consent not required
• C. Yes, consent required
• D. Only if Elizabeth requests

Answer: (C)

Access to a consumer’s marketplace records requires the consumer’s explicit consent before a third party can search for or view an existing application. Even if Marcus isn’t submitting a new application, looking up Elizabeth’s current one would involve handling her private information, so she must authorize the access. If Elizabeth provides clear consent (written or electronic) allowing Marcus to search for and use her existing application, he can proceed. Without that consent, he should not access the records. The other options imply that consent isn’t needed or is only required on request, which doesn’t align with privacy protections that require explicit authorization for third‑party access.